Greek Aviation Systems Upgraded with Advanced Communication Technology

Greece’s airports and air traffic control communication stations are once again being upgraded with new telecommunication systems, following an initiative by the Greek Ministry of Infrastructures and Transport.

More specifically, Minister Christos Staikouras recently signed an agreement to supply new “VHF aeronautical band transponders” for communication services within the Athens flight information region (F.I.R).

These VHF air navigation communication systems will serve the Athens Area Control Centers of Macedonia and the Air Traffic Control Services at the airports.

According to Hellenic Aviation Service Provider (HASP) Governor George Saounatsos, the supply includes new Voice-Over-Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology, being introduced for the first time in the Greek aviation system.

The technology will work in conjunction with the 18 new Voice Communication and Recording Systems (VCRS) at regional airports.

They will meet the needs of the international airports in Heraklio and Kavala, as well as all HCAA telecommunication stations across Greece.

“The contract will be finalized in the first quarter of 2025 and will address Greece’s obligations under the EU Directive for 8.33 kHz Voice Channel Spacing,” Saounatsos added.

Funded 85 percent by the National Strategic Reference Framework (NSRF), the contract is worth 4.2 million euros. Supplier Rohde & Schwarz is expected to complete the installation of all 495 VHF transmitters by the end of 2026.

HASP operates in conjunction with the Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority (HCAA).